🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Votes for Controversial Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by Administration Statement. Image Source The governing board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, as confirmed by the White House. White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its founding and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Institution Not long after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed allies in their place. The reconstituted board later moved to elect Trump chairman. The president was instrumental in securing approximately $257 million in congressional funding to pay for extensive repairs and other financial needs at the historic venue. Historical Roots The vision for a national performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. Further context will be published soon.